Face mask uses new tech to eliminate germs and viruses on contact

TEMPE, Ariz. - New technology is being used to stop the spread of COVID-19 and it's being produced right here in Arizona.

The unique face masks that are made in the USA eliminate germs and viruses on contact.

"This mask is made from a special fabric that started off as a cotton twill that over a period of 13 hours goes through a process and converts to a polypyrrole," explained Tammy Nash of Pintler Medical, LLC. "Polypyrrole fabric, by nature, is anti-microbial and anti-bacterial, which basically means it kills germs. So on contact, germs are being killed with contact with the mask."

Nash says if you happen to be a carrier and don't know it, as you exhale into the mask, it will kill the germs or viruses you're exhaling.

These masks are not only unique to Arizona, but to the country. The masks are the first of their kind and are being sold in Tempe. The masks are washable and reusable with no changes to its biocidal properties during washing.

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Symptoms for coronavirus COVID-19 include fever, coughing, and shortness of breath. These, of course, are similar to the common cold and flu.

Expect a common cold to start out with a sore or scratchy throat, cough, runny and/or stuffy nose. Flu symptoms are more intense and usually come on suddenly, and can include a high fever.

Symptoms of COVID-19 may appear more slowly. They usually include fever, a dry cough and noticeable shortness of breath, according to the World Health Organization. A minority of cases develop pneumonia, and the disease is especially worrisome for the elderly and those with other medical problems such as high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes or heart conditions.

Right now there's one big difference between flu and coronavirus: A vaccine exists to help prevent the flu and it's not too late to get it. It won't protect you from catching the coronavirus, but may put you in a better position to fight it.

To protect yourself, wash your hands well and often, keep them away from your face, and avoid crowds and standing close to people.

And if you do find yourself showing any of these flu or coronavirus symptoms - don't go straight to your doctor's office. That just risks making more people sick, officials urge. Call ahead, and ask if you need to be seen and where.